Radio Signals

Searching for radio transmissions is one of the earliest and still most common approaches to look for extraterrestrial life. In July 2022, MIT scientists made the discovery of a periodic signal that is similar to a heartbeat and originates from a galaxy billions of light years away. Although the precise position hasn't been determined, it now joins the long list of signals we've found over the years, some unexplained and some naturally occurring.

Prior to that transmission, Chinese scientists asserted that they had also discovered an alien signal using their enormous Sky Eye telescope, possibly from an alien civilization. The difficulty of focusing one's search amid the vastness of space and the presence of numerous natural radio wave sources is one of the major drawbacks of this approach.

Radio frequencies are produced by stars and a variety of other celestial bodies, which must be looked into and ruled out throughout the search. One day, it is hoped, someone will discover a signal that is more than simply background noise and shows a distinct indication of intelligent intent.